News

Extra patrols for derby day

Police will be carrying out extra patrols in city centres on derby day.

Extra officers will be on patrol across Newcastle and Sunderland - including in the bars and pubs - before, during and after the Newcastle v Sunderland match on Sunday.

They will be ensuring that people are acting responsibly and there to reassure communities that police and partners are working to make it a safe day for all.

Fans are being urged to drink responsibly on the day as officers will not tolerate supporters causing trouble for the majority of well behaved fans who want to enjoy the occasion.

In Newcastle, officers will be in the city centre and the area around St James’ Park from early on Sunday morning - speaking with local residents and businesses and supporting licensees and pub staff.

Newcastle Chief Inspector Bruce Storey said: "We want football fans to enjoy the occasion and won't allow a small minority who drink to excess and cause trouble to spoil it for the majority of real supporters.

"We're also working to ensure there is minimum disruption to local residents and businesses, and people going to the city but not attending the match.

"The city centre will be very busy, as will the public transport, road networks and car parks around the city - so people not going to the match need to bear this in mind before travelling.

"There will be officers on patrol throughout the day and night and I'd urge anyone with any concerns to speak with local officers.

We want to welcome supporters from both teams, and hope they enjoy the football and facilities of the area and behave responsibly."

In Sunderland, officers will be at train stations early helping travelling fans get on to trains, Metros and coaches and will be carrying out patrols of bars and pubs in the city centre throughout the day and into the evening.

Sunderland Chief Inspector George Marratty added: "There will be a significant visible policing presence in the city centre on Sunday morning to ensure Sunderland supporters get to Newcastle safely and there is minimal disruption to the public.

"We want people to enjoy the occasion and act responsibly and the majority of people do. We are well aware city centres will be busier on derby day and in response we will carry out extra patrols to provide reassurance."

After full time extra patrols will continue in Sunderland and Newcastle into the evening.